Rangers were held to a 1-1 draw by AS Sobemap in the first leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary round clash at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta, on Sunday.

The Flying Antelopes controlled the early stages of the contest, pinning the Beninese visitors back for sustained periods and creating a series of promising openings.

Chidozie breaks the deadlock

Their pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when Iwundu Chidozie struck to hand Rangers the lead. Manager Fidelis Ilechukwu's side continued to dictate play after the opener and fashioned several additional chances, yet they could not add to their tally before the half-time whistle.

Sobemap hit back to level

AS Sobemap emerged from the break with renewed purpose and shocked the home crowd by drawing level early in the second half. The equaliser altered the complexion of the match entirely.

Rangers pushed forward in pursuit of a winner and carved out a number of clear-cut opportunities, but a combination of poor finishing and resolute visiting defending kept the scoreline level.

The 1-1 result leaves the tie perfectly balanced ahead of the second leg, which is scheduled to take place at the same venue next Sunday.